The widespread power outage that left Golden and much of the East Kootenay without electricity over the weekend put the region’s emergency response systems to the test.
For Sgt. Mitch Mercier, commander of the Golden-Field RCMP detachment, the event demonstrated the strength of local first responders, but also exposed some concerning behaviour at intersections where traffic lights were not working.
Nearly 18,000 BC Hydro customers in Golden, Parson, Radium Hot Springs, Athalmer, Fairmont Hot Springs, Canal Flats and surrounding communities lost power at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 1. According to BC Hydro, wildfire-related damage affected transmission and distribution systems, with several transmission structures requiring replacement.
The prolonged outage disrupted businesses, fuel stations, communications systems and traffic signals. It also required close cooperation among police, firefighters, paramedics, municipal employees and other emergency personnel.
“Our first responders worked extremely hard under very challenging circumstances,” Mercier said. “Despite limited communications, dark intersections and increased demands across the community, everyone supported one another and remained focused on keeping the public safe. I’m extremely proud of the way everyone pulled together.”
However, the loss of traffic signals created dangerous conditions at several Golden intersections. RCMP members stopped numerous drivers who failed to follow the proper four-way-stop procedure. Officers issued verbal warnings and reminded motorists of their responsibilities.
“The RCMP would like to remind drivers that when the electric lights are not working, we go back to the basics,” Mercier said. “The intersection is treated as a four-way stop. All traffic must stop and then proceed when safe.”
Mercier emphasized that the rule applies at every darkened intersection, including each of the three signalized intersections along 10th Avenue North and South.
“On 10th Avenue North and South there are three traffic lights, and drivers must stop at each one,” he said.
Police observed a number of local motorists failing to stop during the outage. There was also an injury collision involving an out-of-province driver, who was issued a ticket for failing to yield.
A failure-to-yield ticket carries a total fine of $167.
The rules are set out in Section 125.1 of the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act. A driver approaching an intersection with inoperative traffic signals must stop before entering. Once vehicles have stopped, the usual four-way-stop rules apply.
The first vehicle to arrive and stop should proceed first. When two vehicles arrive at approximately the same time, the driver on the left must yield to the vehicle on the right. Drivers must also yield to any vehicle already entering the intersection.
Mercier said the weekend should serve as an important reminder for both residents and visitors. During an emergency, drivers need to slow down, remain patient and follow the basic rules of the road to avoid creating additional work for already-busy first responders.
